Visitors to Blueberry Gardens, especially those who have been here previously, will notice some major changes to our property. Why are we cutting down trees and bushes and clearing areas? All our changes are an attempt to align with our natural environment. This area of Maryland is infested with non-native, invasive plant and tree species which do not support our native animals.  These troublesome plants crowd out and destroy the native species on which our birds and animals and insects and butterflies rely.

We began in the spring 2016 with a major removal of non-native, invasive species such as multiflora rose, bush honeysuckle, oriental bittersweet and English ivy, etc. We continued our efforts this winter taking down the larger trees and shrubs such as Ailanthus, Leland Cypress and Burning Bush.

We began planting native perennials last spring and have been amazed at the bees and other pollinators and the butterflies that swarmed over them. We're expanding our changes this spring by planting larger trees and shrubs, as well as more perennials.

These "before-and-after" photos illustrate the beauty of our changes but they don't show the true ecological benefits. For example, the Leland Cypress trees which we just removed support no wildlife, while our new white oak trees will support 534 species and serve as a prime source of food for birds. Our new hickory trees will feed all mammals in the area. 

We think our grounds will look beautiful with the changes to the landscape and the arrival of more living creatures.  When you visit, be sure to look for the plant identification markers by our new plants. If you want further information about our plan feel free to contact us.

Winter session classes at Blueberry Gardens are winding down, and we're now accepting registrations for spring. Our spring class schedule is posted on our website: www.blueberrygardens.org,   

This spring, Biodanza classes have moved to 7:30pm, Thursdays. You're invited to deepen your self-awareness and enjoy this combination of music, movement and positive feelings.

The schedules for Yoga and T'ai Chi classes remain the same. T'ai Chi classes are set for 11am, Wednesdays and 5:30pm, Thursdays. For beginners, Yoga I meets at 9:30am, Tuesdays and for the more advanced, Yoga I/II meets at 5:45pm, Tuesdays. Gentle/Therapeutic Yoga is held at 5:45pm, Mondays for those who prefer a less rigorous session.

If you're seeking a calmer, less stressed life, Stacie Rogers' very popular weekly mindfulness and meditation sessions begin Wednesday, April 19. Additional details appear below in the Special Events list.

Time to cut yourself a little slack! Mother Nature keeps teasing us with the weather, but eventually the warmth and colors of spring will return. Upcoming special events at Blueberry Gardens offer opportunities for a brief getaway to relax and recharge. Our calendar of special events is updated frequently, for the latest information, please visit our website: www.blueberrygardens.org .

 

Wellness and peace of mind also extend to your financial situation. Women are encouraged to learn how to grow their money harmony and money flow at  Build Your Money Muscle, 9:30am to 12:30pm, Wednesday, March 16. Experience the power, joy and rich new possibilities derived from building a strong relationship with money. Cost: $99. Register: [email protected]

 

Each day and each mindful breath represents a new beginning. Enjoy a wonderful opportunity to grow at a day of mindfulness meditation, Qi Gong, deep relaxation, walking meditation and sharing experiences at Spring Awakening: A Day of Meditation Practices,

Learn to facilitate Family Systems Constellations and develop the resource of systemic thinking and perspective  at the 2017 Systems Constellation 21-Day Facilitator Training, starting March 24-25. Session continue in April, June, July, September and October. This training will help expand your professional impact and joy and vibrancy in your own life. Professionals from many healing disciplines have completed this training and enjoy a broader understanding of the dynamics of family, human, community and natural systems. Francesca Mason Boring, of All My Relations Constellations and an author, trainer, teacher and facilitator, will provide the training. Cost: $3,200. Info: 202-255-8602 or [email protected].

 

You're invited to be part of the Institute of Modern Wisdom's Spring East Coast Tour, Be with the Sacred, a full-day workshop, 9:30am to 5:30pm, Saturday, April 1. A packed day of experiences includes Meditation/Chanting, Divining the Circle, Shamanic Work, Kundalini Yoga, Sacred Shopping and more. Workshop facilitator is Rev. Kate Rodger, Ph.D., founder and Spiritual Director of the Modern Day Mystery School, Institute of Modern Wisdom. She is steeped in practical New Thought teachings and has led world-wide Sacred Journeys and Retreats since 2002. Energy exchange: $88. Info: [email protected].

 

Awakening the Body with Sound and Vibration is a full-day, experiential workshop to help recalibrate to our own natural frequency from 9:30am to 5:30pm, Friday, April 7. Everything in the universe is in a constant state of vibration, including every bone, tissue, organ and cell. When our vibration is not in sync with our optimal frequency, we can feel out of sorts, imbalanced and depleted. Sound healing brings your vibration back into resonance allowing for relaxation, reduced anxiety and a boost in the immune system. Massage therapists receive 7 NCBTMB CC's. Cost: $139. Info: 919-885-1069.

 

Cultivate compassion for your soul during spring and a time of new growth. Self-Care: Connecting with Mother Earth is a one-day expressive journey and creative renewal retreat from 10am to 4pm, Saturday, April 8. Therapist and counselor Carol Cober and professional artist and painting instructor Bonny Lundy share resources from exploring the intersection of creativity, healing and spiritual seeking. Cost: $100. Info or register: Carol at 240-418-5603 or   [email protected] or Bonny at 301-466-6344 or [email protected].

 

Soul-Centered: Transform Your Life in Eight Weeks with Meditation, a series of meditation sessions, offer guidance to quiet your mind, navigate stress and connect to inner peace. This eight-week session starts Wednesday, April 19 and runs through June 21, from 1 to 2:30pm. Instructor Stacie Rogers shares techniques and strategies to physically, emotionally and mentally enhance your life. Beginners and disbelievers welcome. Cost: $195, military and senior discounts available. Info: 301-801-3401 or [email protected].

 

Balanced, healthy nourishment is a key to an enlightened life. Radical Self-Care: A Daylong Mindful Eating and Yoga Retreat offers practical ways to achieve more harmony in your life by understanding and practicing mindful self-care. ncourages your senses to strive for awareness in your eating habits. Yoga teacher and educator Janice Levitt and whole food advocate Jess Frey combine yoga exercises with guidance in mindfulness to allow participants to reflect, nourish and recharge. The workshop is set for 9am to 4:30pm, Saturday, May 6. Cost: $120 before April 6, $140 after April 6, vegetarian lunch included. Register: www.savorwellness.com.